Many unknown war heroes go unrecognized, lacking statues or large granite crypts. Their graves span our nation and are often marked with a small American flag placed next to the headstone. These tombstones may simply bear their name, date of birth, date of death, and the word “Veteran.”
These Americans served their country in places most citizens will never understand. Yet, their active service did not claim their lives. After the gunfire ceased and they returned home, their battles continued until they were finally laid to rest beneath American soil.
It was an incredible honor to be asked to speak at a Vietnam Memorial Day ceremony recently. My connection to these valiant warriors began with a column I wrote in 2019. It felt as though the words were inspired by a higher power, as the story resonated across the nation. This was necessary, not to highlight my achievement, but to celebrate the recognition that these Vietnam Veterans truly deserved.
The event took place in a park that featured a Vietnam Memorial erected last year. As I began to deliver my message, I noticed two bronze soldiers standing behind me. I was extremely nervous before speaking because I didn’t want to disappoint these beloved veterans.
As the crowd gathered, I felt a deep sense of humility as I shook hands with men and women who sacrificed so much in battle but were often forgotten by the nation upon their return.
After finishing my speech, I gazed at the two bronze soldiers behind the podium and realized that, although they were merely symbols, the spirits of the fallen warriors had comforted and strengthened me throughout it.
I shared with the crowd that my brother died in 1998 from cancer caused by a carcinogen he brought home from his Navy service in Vietnam. Many others who served alongside him faced the same fate.
Afterward, I began to wonder how many Vietnam veterans died after returning home due to their service.
During the Vietnam War, a total of 58,220 soldiers were killed. It is estimated that an additional 300,000 have died as a result of their service during the war. Many of these individuals succumbed to the effects of Agent Orange, while others were affected by PTSD. Some passed away from war-related injuries in the years following the conflict.
When I read the statistics, I cried.
My brother’s small grave marker is located in the Tennessee mountain town where we were born. It reads simply, “Lt. John E. Walker, Vietnam Veteran.” Even though the war took him from us earlier than many, he would be proud of his service. When “Taps” is played and the 21-gun salute startles my calm, a part of me breaks.
The silence of gunfire does not mean the Vietnam War is over.
Including the Iraq War and the war in Afghanistan, 7,055 service members were killed in battle. However, 30,170 veterans died by suicide. Thousands more suffered severe injuries and were exposed to harmful chemicals, leading to long-term disabilities.
Shockingly, since 2001, 140,000 U.S. veterans have died by suicide. The mental health of our soldiers and the care they need and deserve should be a top priority.
Those who have served our nation must be remembered every day, not just on Veterans Day or Memorial Day.
The silence that follows gunfire does not mean any war is over.
Politicians often seek our votes by emphasizing divisive issues such as transgender athletes, redistricting, the stock market, gun control, and immigration. These topics can lead to strong opinions about party politics. However, one issue that should never be polarizing is the treatment and support of our soldiers. Without their sacrifices, we wouldn’t have anything to vote for or against.
As I looked out at the veterans gathered before me, I noticed a 93-year-old widow sitting in the front row. Her husband, who passed away several years ago, was the highest-ranking Army officer captured in Vietnam. Col. Benjamin H. Purcell endured more than five years in a dark, dank prison, fully understanding that freedom has a cost he was willing to pay.
Before we enjoy our BBQs and lakes this Memorial Day, please take a moment to reflect on the numbers. Feel a sense of shame, an abundance of gratitude, and decide to take action. Contact your government representatives and consider donating to various charities that support our veterans, as they truly need our help. America needs them.
To all those who continue to suffer from battles long after the wars have ended: keep fighting to breathe, live, and love. Memorial Day is not only about remembering the dead. It is about refusing to abandon the living. Because the silence after gunfire does not mean the war is over.
Donate: Vietnam Veterans of America
Wounded Warrior Project
Gary Sinise Foundation
These are just a few of the organizations that offer assistance to Veterans.
